Last week, our wonderful Year 5 students headed off on their highly anticipated annual residential trip to Cobnor Activities Centre. Located on the breathtaking Chichester Harbour in West Sussex, the trip saw students and staff spend five unforgettable days taking part in a wide range of water and land-based activities.
The adventure began bright and early at 6:30am. As the coach set off, we waved goodbye to a wave of teary, pyjama-clad parents at the school gate. After our coach driver skillfully navigated the tight residential roads surrounding the school, we were finally on the open road - brimming with excitement.
While Cobnor usually blesses us with blue skies and calm seas, this year’s sailors had to contend with rain and high winds during the first few days. Though this meant slightly less sailing than originally planned, it didn't dampen any spirits. Bowling staff over with their resilience and adaptability, the children found this opened up an opportunity for even more fun on land.
While off the water, the children had an incredible array of activities to enjoy. Honing skills such as problem solving, leadership and cooperation the children took on the climbing wall, high ropes, archery, aeroball and orienteering to name but a few of the stations.
When the day’s main workshops had finished, The Belham’s staff facilitated a range of additional activities each evening to keep everyone entertained. This included crabbing, evening hikes to the beach, camp fires and a talent show on the last night.
It was absolutely lovely to watch the children grow in independence, confidence and perseverance throughout the trip. With this being the first time many of our children have stayed away from their adults, we returned home an incredibly proud, mature and unified year-group. Helping prepare them for the challenges that lie ahead next year and beyond, the staff feel incredibly lucky to help create core memories that will stay with them for many years to come.
As we look to continue this amazing experience for future year groups, we need your help to navigate increasingly choppy waters. As the costs rise each year - amidst a cost-of-living crisis and ever-tightening school budgets - we are already working with our current Year 4 parents to explore ways to offer support. Please keep an eye out for fundraising activities throughout the year, and support wherever you can to help ensure the longevity of this incredible opportunity!
